The Mail-Journal - April 19, 2023

Wawasee Engagement Committee presents suggestions to school board

trators and two board members.

Supermileage Team Wins

Page 8

Four members of the Wawasee Community Engagement Committee presented their findings to the Wawasee School Board Tuesday, April 18.

Those findings included combining Milford Middle School with Wawasee Middle School,

renovating or constructing a new Milford Elementary School and a new performing arts center.

Before turning the meeting over to the executive committee, Superintendent Dr. Steve Troyer explained from late February through the end of March, representatives of the community met five different times to provide input on everything from educational programming to

facility needs.

Mike Mettham said the task force was broken up into four groups to study education programs and facilities needs across the school corporation, as well as provide options for the board to consider based upon data and feedback.

The task force included parents, patrons, community leaders, teachers, support staff, adminis-

Jeff Dyson said their focus was on the children and they had to make data-driven decisions. Instruction must drive construction, safety must be a priority and immediate needs should be a focus. They wanted to strive for curriculum and program equity and maximum use of current facilities.

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North Webster Town Council tables motion for new planters

North Webster Town Council met in its regular monthly session Tuesday night at the North Webster Community Center.

In department reports, Mike Noe reported through Council President Dan Thystrup that a lift pump recently failed and required replacement at a cost of $4,500. The appropriation was unanimously approved.

Town Marshal Greg Church reported two of the town’s officers, Noah Kiessling and James Curtis, graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy on Saturday. In the parks report, the council was informed that Leann Hubbs has submitted her resignation.

Council member Dave Waliczek suggested the board would be OK without replacing her, but that if anyone was interested in the position they should contact any member of the council.

In old business, Thystrup announced he paid the invoice for the USI study regarding the proposed North Webster trail. He also in-

formed the council they were denied the MACOG grant for which they applied. He added they were encouraged to apply again in the next grant cycle.

In new business, Scott Kuhn, representing the North WebsterTippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce, requested $8,331 from the council as reimbursement for the chamber’s purchase of 20 selfwatering planters that will be placed along Main Street throughout downtown. Waliczek argued against the expenditure, saying he believed the cost to be extreme.

Council member Lisa Steinbeck expressed her support while Thystrup was undecided. The request was tabled until next month’s meeting.

Ben Hogan, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County, spoke on behalf of the organization. While he did not have a specific request, he wanted to make the council aware of the homes being built in Claypool on land donated to Habitat by the town. He

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Committee conclusions presented in an executive summary meeting

The final meeting of the Wawasee Community Engagement Committee on March 25 was to develop suggestions using the information provided over the previous four sessions – finances, educational programs, facilities and demographics.

“The process is as important as the outcome,” stated Dr. James Halik, president of CompassKeynote Consulting LLC, who facilitated the meetings. He charged the group with a list of things to remember when arriving at sugges-

tions to the board.

• Instruction must drive construction.

• Safety must be a priority.

• Focus on the immediate needs first.

• Strive for curriculum and program equity.

• Benefits of consolidating facilities.

• Curb appeal as related to brand.

The four groups, divided by suits of a deck of cards, met for several hours before presenting their suggestions to the group.

The four presentations were

For the primary race for the Syracuse Clerk-Treasurer’s office, The Mail-Journal is asking incumbent

Virginia Cazier and challenger

Larry Siegel a question a week through the April 26 edition to give readers an idea of how each envisions the office.

The sixth question candidates were asked was, “If the Town of Syracuse received an unrestricted $1 million grant, how would you suggest as clerk-treasurer the town council spend the money?”

Larry Siegel

I have had the opportunity to serve the people of Syracuse on the Town Council for more than 20 years.

I appreciate the support and confidence from all the people of Syracuse who recently reelected me to the town council. This election has made me aware of a yet greater need to serve as clerktreasurer. I ask for your votes, trust and support in the May primary.

As clerk-treasurer the authority or influence over a grant is very limited by state law. The Indiana law that defines the clerk-treasurer’s authority is very restrictive.

IC 6-5-6-6 Powers and duties:

Sec. 6(a):

(1) Receive and care for all town money and pay the money out only on order of the town legislative body.

The town has recently had to borrow $2 million for needed projects. The first is for a water main extension along Lakeside Drive. The second is for a sanitary sewer improvement in Oakwood Park. Very soon we will have to repaint the north water tower. This type of debt should not be left to the future of Syracuse.

I am a fiscal conservative and would likely suggest to the council they use the money to reduce the debt requirements for these projects. The sooner the $2 million debt is paid, the sooner the town will have the funds for other needs and projects. But, keep in mind, how the funds are spent is determined solely by the town council not the clerk-treasurer.

I know this may sound boring. But, I would discourage the town from going on a shopping spree at the expense of the taxpayers in the town of Syracuse. What is not paid from the grant will have to be paid with more tax dollars. As clerk-treasurer, my role would only be to record the grant and pay money out only on the order of

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Syracuse Town Council learns surprising fact regarding National Child Abuse Month

Erin Rowland Jones, executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates, was in attendance as Cindy Kaiser, president of the Syracuse Town Council, read a proclamation declaring April National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Kaiser read the proclamation during the council’s regular meeting Tuesday night, April 18.

Rowland Jones explained this year CASA wanted to be more mindful in its observance of National Child Abuse Prevention

Month by visiting the top three communities where children have been removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect. Along with Syracuse, CASA also visited Warsaw and Mentone. Rowland Jones also noted CASA serves all of Kosciusko County and needs more volunteers.

After the reading of the proclamation, Councilman Larry Siegel asked if those abuse cases were located within the town limits of Syracuse or had a Syracuse address. Roland Jones said “a Syracuse address.” Siegel then noted

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Indiana’s Largest Marina

compiled into an executive summary by Halik to be presented at the Wawasee Community School Board meeting April 18.

Halik presented an 18 page executive summary to the board. This summary included the district vision and mission statements, purpose and process, a list of the task force members and their attendance record along with the charge of the committee. Additionally, the summary included things the committee enjoyed, what they thought was missing and general comments. “It was evident after hearing all

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Clerk-Treasurer candidates explain how they would advise Syracuse Town Council

County council approves H.E.L.P. Strategic Investment Plan

With the Kosciusko County Council’s approval of the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program Strategic Investment Plan on Thursday, April 13, the process is getting nearer to the determination of where grant dollars will be awarded.

Community Coordinator Amy Roe presented the S.I.P. to the county council for their approval.

“So I am here today for a very exciting moment in this project program process,” she said before reviewing the process so far. “We went through all four of the phases of the HELP, starting with the team building, moving into community engagement and then the project review, and now taking all of that information and the specific projects and programs that the community members had approved by the town boards (and) are now in this document called the Strategic Investment Plan.”

With the council’s approval of the SIP, Roe said the funding side of the process will open up.

The next step will be April 26 when Roe, Commissioner Cary Groninger and representatives of the Office of Community and Rural Affairs and Michiana Area Council of Governments will sit down to discuss the Community Development Block Grants restrictions. There may be communities that will have to do income surveys. Once those surveys are complete, “we will know the full

picture of which projects and communities are fully eligible to use the match dollars from CDBG.”

Hopefully, by the end of June, Roe said both the county council and commissioners, along with the ARPA Committee, will be brought together to review all the financial information and decide how to fund the projects.

Councilwoman Sue Ann Mitchell said, looking at the document, there’s enough projects in there that can keep the county and communities going for quite some time.

“It’s a long-range plan that can change at any moment as things develop. So this isn’t something that we were working on to put on a shelf. This is something we need to work on to keep current, because if you’re going to put it on a shelf, there’s no point in doing it…,” Mitchell said.

In another point related to the Forward Kosciusko plan the county also adopted, Roe said the Kosciusko County Community Foundation “actually put a funding source out to, not only provide for projects that were part of that, but also could provide seed money for projects that were in the H.E.L.P. S.I.P.” Each of the communities that have been a part of H.E.L.P. “actually have some of those projects having a bit of seed money already, moving toward the projects that they would like as their capstone.”

K21 Health Foundation already provided $200,000 to each of the communities in the county

Wawasee Engagement

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“When we met on the Saturday at Wawasee Middle School with everybody, we did have a good portion of time where we really got down to the brass tax and took all of the wish lists from everybody. We got to prioritize things, we hashed things out,” said Karena Wilkinson.

Josh Weiland said the biggest one they talked about was the combination of Milford and Wawasee middle schools.

“This was a major discussion point, and we all landed on the fact that it makes the most sense, in our opinions, to merge the two schools,” Weiland said, adding it wasn’t the “preference” of everyone in the group, but it made the most sense when all the information is considered. One of those considerations was merging would provide more opportunities for more students in more areas, including educational programming, the arts and athletics.

Each group of the committee discussed the option of renovating or constructing a new elementary school in Milford. All noted the option should be given “high priority” or, at minimum, significant renovations.

Extracurricular activity is a huge piece in developing wellrounded citizens in the community, Weiland said, so the committee asked the school board to consider a new performing arts center. He said it was a pressing need they saw as they toured the school. The current auditorium is outdated and space is very limited. If it’s pursued with a “broad vision,” a new performing arts center could be used for community events.

As for athletics, the committee recommended a new mixeduse fieldhouse to be shared by the school and community. They suggested the renovation or construction of a new competitive swimming pool as the current pool is aging.

If a new performing arts center was built, that could open space for the CTE, expansion of STEAM and STEM programs, robotics and AP programs and classroom space, Dyson said, adding the planetarium needs update or replaced. He noted Wawasee needs a marketing and communication strategy to try to get the communities to come to-

for health and wellness projects.

The council approved the SIP 7-0.

The county council also:

• Approved the additional appropriation of $2,236,550 for the Kosciusko County Highway Department for bridge 123 over Wyland Ditch on Packerton Road. The money was awarded from a federal 80/20 grant program.

• Approved ARPA grants as presented.

The grants included $44,000 for The Beaman Home for upgrades to Mary Ann’s Place; $5,836 to Kosciusko County Work Release for a walk-thru metal detector; $32,000 to Milford Volunteer Fire Department for additional portable radios; $23,898 to the Animal Welfare League for maintenance to the cat house; $10,952 to Warsaw Police Department for mobile radios; $86,322 to the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office for body-worn cameras; $252,800 to the North Webster Community Center for building updates, with the majority of the funds for roof repair; and $19,100 to Court Appointed Special Advocates for fingerprinting of volunteers, staff and board members as well as an update to manuals and video.

The council approved the additional appropriations for those grants so the money could be spent, as requested by County Administrator Marsha McSherry.

• Heard a quarterly update from Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation CEO Alan Tio.

• Heard a department update

from county coroner Tyler Huffer, who also introduced his chief deputy coroner, Paul Schmitt. From Jan. 1 to March 31, Huffer said his department has had 38 calls, and 47 year-to-date. Twelve of those were accidents, including overdoses, accidents and falls. They’ve had eight overdoses, with five testing positive for fentanyl. The coroner’s office has had eight autopsies so far in 2023.

• Approved for the health department to apply for a $41,595.14 Health Issues & Challenges grant to offer lead testing for children at the health clinic.

• Approved a $4,000 additional appropriation, as requested by Superior Court I Judge Karin McGrath, for court interpreters.

• Approved a salary ordinance amendment for the Purdue Extension Office for a 4-H program assistant at $13.19 per hour. It’s not a new position, but a reduction of $6 per hour from a STEM assistant to the program assistant.

• Approved a $20,500 grant application to the CHIRP Hoosier Highways Injury Reduction grant program and a $500,000 grant application for the Integrated Reentry & Correctional Support program, as requested by the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department.

• Approved 18 salary ordinance amendments for the KCSD and the transfers to support those salary changes, as requested by the sheriff.

Early voting begins April 24

Early and satellite voting will begin April 22 for the May 2 primary election.

Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Dr., is an early satellite voting location. Voters will be able to cast ballots from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22, and Saturday, April 29.

Voters may also cast their early votes at the Kosciusko County Justice Building, 121 N. Lake St., Warsaw, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 24-28, with the voting location closed from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for lunch; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22 and 29; and 8 a.m. to noon, Monday, May 1.

Primaries will be held for Syracuse, Nappanee and Winona Lake.

Republican candidates for Syracuse are:

Town Council District 3 —Cindy Kaiser Town Council District 4 — David R. Rosenberry, Nathan Scherer and Brian Woody

Town Council District 5 — Bill Musser

Clerk-Treasurer — Virginia Cazier and Larry Siegel

Republican candidates for Nappanee:

Mayor — Phil Jenkins

Clerk-treasurer — Jeffrey P. Knight City judge — Christopher Walter

Common Council at-large — Kilbi Veenstra

Common Council District 1 — Bill Leavitt

Common Council District 2 — Brayton Taylor and Austin Yoder

Common Council District 3 — Amy Rosa

Common Council District 4 — Jeremy Beach and Dustin M. Geyer

The Democrat candidate for Nappanee is Charlie Burkley for Common Council District 3.

Republican candidates for Winona Lake:

Clerk-treasurer —Heather

James and Laurie Renier

Town Council District 1 — Austin Reynolds

Town Council District 2 — Ashley McGinnis

Town Council District 4 — Barry Andrew

Vote centers used in the upcoming election will be Syracuse Community Center and Christ Covenant Church, Winona Lake.

gether. Dyson also brought up the alternative learning facilities, which are housed in trailers outside of the high school, saying those facilities needed evaluation and improvement.

Wilkinson then presented on the “somewhat discussed” items, including expansion of preschool space, improving parent dropoff and pickup areas at the elementary schools, playground updates and making the necessary improvements to the HVAC units. Additional considerations, as presented by Mettham, included expanding the middle school industrial technology areas, addressing the softball and baseball turf, considering outdoor classroom space, improving and updating entrances to all schools and updating the district’s radio system for emergencies.

Board members thanked the committee members and said they were impressed with the work. Andy Cripe, one of the two board members who sat through the meetings but was not allowed to speak, said he felt like the process was productive and was encouraged. Board member Steven Baut said it was nice the group represented all walks of life in the community.

North Webster Town

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asked that, if a similar situation arose in North Webster in which property became available through the town, a donation of the land to Habitat be considered.

Tippecanoe Township Trustee Chris Francis addressed the council. He said the new well for the fire department will be placed at North Webster Elementary. They are waiting for a stand-alone fire hydrant to be placed at the location for full access to the well, which will eliminate disruption to the

school’s water supply.

Francis also said the paving of the roads in North Webster Cemetery has been completed. Some trees have been removed in the cemetery as well.

Finally, Francis noted that the locations for the tornado sirens are still to be determined.

During the open floor portion of the meeting, Rex Hunzinker asked the council what the town was going to do about recycling, since KC Recycling has removed its self-service bins from all locations in the

Troyer said the executive summary will be posted on the school corporation’s website later this week for the community to review, as well as possibly some additional resources that circle the conversation.

“We want to make sure that we’re communicating and making available information for people to see,” he said. “All of that construction and renovation will be happening without raising property taxes. So, that’s a critical piece that we have been planning for.”

He said interim finance director Dr. Brandon Penrod has been long-term planning regarding Wawasee’s debt tax rate.

“Currently, it sits at $0.5399, and we’re planning for $0.5399 again next year, and the plan would be moving forward the board has wished we manage to a level tax rate,” Troyer said. “Maybe a little bit of undulation in there, but for the most part, trying to stay right around the 54 cents, which is partly the operation fund levy and partly the debt levy that we use to pay back bonds.”

He stated renovations or construction would happen without raising the tax rate over the next five years.

county. An explanation of the recycling center being a county decision ensued, including the reasoning and potential future recycling possibilities.

Emily Shipley, president of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce, concluded the meeting by asking for a new street sign at Dixie and Huntington streets.

The next council meeting will be held Tuesday, May 16, at the North Webster Community Center. The public is invited to attend.

Syracuse Town Council

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they could range from Dewart Lake to the other side of Lake Wawasee Kaiser also read the annual Arbor Day Proclamation. During his report, Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, told the council Arbor Day will be celebrated from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, April 28, at the new ballpark with third graders from Syracuse Elementary School. The students will assist in planting some evergreen trees along the south property line of the ballpark.

The council held a public hearing and approved a waiver of noncompliance for property tax deductions for QES Reality LLC. Local attorney Steve Snyder explained QES Reality applied for and received tax abatement in 2021. It later submitted its annual compliance form; however, the form was never signed by the council president or the clerktreasurer and submitted to the county auditor.

The council approved the waiver, signed the compliance papers and gave them to Snyder to deliver to the county auditor.

The council instructed town attorney Jay Rigdon to adjust a town ordinance, which forbids obstructions on sidewalks, to provide a process to allow for outdoor dining. The request came after a petition from staff at Kelly Jae’s, which would like to provide outdoor dining this spring and summer. Rigdon is to come up with a process that includes requiring Kelly Jae’s and other dining establishments to go through an application process.

Steve Showalter of Showalter RV, Nappanee, and Debra Hughes, senior project manager for Sam Companies, Elkhart, came before the council requesting permission to connect to the town’s water and sewer without annexation.

Showalter plans to develop a high-end luxury RV Park near CR 29 in Elkhart County and would like to connect to the town’s water and sewer. The neighbors to the proposed park do not want to be annexed into the Town of Syracuse.

After some discussion regarding rates and wear and tear on the system, Councilman Bill Musser made a motion to approve allowing Showalter to connect to the utilities with Showalter agreeing to pay a higher water and sewer rate. The council passed Musser’s motion.

In new business, Councilman Larry Siegel presented a letter from the State Board of Accounts stating the town’s ordinance related to its Health Safety Account deduction is unclear. Siegel has argued he is entitled to having $3,000 deposited into his HSA.

Virginia Cazier, clerk-treasurer, countered with information from the Internal Revenue Service comparability rules noting town employees have PHP insurance, which allows $3,000 to be deposited into an HSA. Siegel has Anthem Insurance, which allows $2,400 to be deposited into its HSA.

As the two started to argue, Rigdon broke in, stating there were several questions on the table: What has the council approved? He noted the state board of accounts said it isn’t clear. He said there was nothing wrong for the town to determine an amount that is the same for everyone. Rigdon said the Affordable Care Act has made some changes to the rules regarding HSAs.

Musser made a motion to have the same amount, $3,000, placed in employees’ and council members’ HSAs. The vote was three for the motion, with Kaiser abstaining and Councilman Paul

Stoelting voting no.

During the town manager’s report, David Wilkinson reported a small piece of property has been donated to the town on Harkless Drive, so NIPSCO can move a pole and the sidewalk can be fixed. The town approved accepting the donation.

Wilkinson publicly praised Jonsson and his staff for their hard work on getting the ballpark finished. “They have worked tremendously hard to get that ready,” he said.

In the parks report, Jonsson said there will be a grand opening celebration of the new ballpark Saturday, April 29. Anyone attending the opening is recommended to come from the south to avoid the parade of Little League players coming from Syracuse Elementary School.

Mark Aurich, public works superintendent, requested $30,000 from the South Benton Tax Increment Finance District for upgrades to the booster station at the Technology Park to maintain required fire suppression requirements. The Syracuse Redevelopment Commission approved the request earlier Tuesday night during its regular meeting. The council approved the request.

The Turkey Creek Fire Territory will be offering a Safe Sitter Class for students in sixth through eighth grade from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20. The cost is $30 for materials.

The next CPR class will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 31, at Station 1.

Rigdon informed the council he found the deed and legal description for the Dolan Street property to be donated to the Syracuse Public Library. The town approved the deed and signed it for the library project to move forward.

Obituaries

Lorna Coy

Longtime New Market Employee

Lorna Coy, 60, Goshen, passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023, at Goshen Hospital.

She was born March 26, 1963, in Goshen, to Richard and Marcinda (Dannells) Trammel. On Feb. 28, 1987, she married David Coy, who survives.

She was a longtime employee of Lances/New Market in Syracuse. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Syracuse.

She is survived by her husband, David Coy; two daughters, Crystal (Albert Bouqenoy) Kehr and Holly (Justin) Small; two sons, Thomas Kehr and Derrick (Heather Miller) Coy; her mother, Marcinda Trammel; 12 grandchildren; one great-grandson; two sisters, Marge Emerrick and Kim (Brian) Tucker; and two brothers, Jack (Michelle) Trammel and Tom (Stacie) Trammel.

She was preceded in death by her father in 2010.

There will be a celebration of Lorna’s life at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 23, at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse. Visitation will be two hours prior, from 2-4 p.m.

Dean Mast

Syracuse Eagles Member

Dean Mast, 84, Cromwell, passed away Monday, March 6, 2023, at The Waters of Syracuse.

He was born March 20, 1938, in Goshen, to Donald and Grace Mast. He was married to Gail Kurtz, who passed away in 2018.

He resided in the Lake Wawasee area for over 57 years and also maintained residency in Panama City Beach, Fla. He was a mechanical machinist, tool and die maker, was involved with law enforcement and was employed by Standard Oil Company of New Jersey. He enjoyed fishing, vintage boats and vehicles. He was a member of Syracuse Eagles No. 3760.

He is survived by his son, Keith (Cami) Shaffer; and two sisters, Donita Jackson and Charlene Sherman. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.

Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse, was in charge of arrangements.

Syracuse Public Library —

Anna Glover

Real Estate Broker

Anna Glover, 96, Syracuse, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023, at The Waters of Syracuse.

She was born Oct. 7, 1926, in Evanston, Ill., to Joseph and Freida (Herring) Ramos. On Sept. 25, 1948, she married Grange Glover, who preceded her in death in 1998. She was a clerk for Illinois Bell and a real estate broker for Coldwell Banker. She was a member of the United Church of Marco Island, past worthy matron of the Order of Eastern Star in Chicago Heights, past president of Women in Real Estate and a graduate of Stephen Ministry.

She is survived by her daughter, Glynis (Gary) Burkes; two sons, John (Arlene) Glover and Samuel Glover; 10 grandchildren; five greatgrandchildren; and her sister, Carol Bresnahan.

Along with her husband Grange, Anna was also preceded in death by her son, Gregory; and brother, Donald.

There will be an interment service at 11 a.m. Friday, April 21, at the Syracuse Cemetery. Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse, is handling arrangements.

Jane Fry

Calvary UMC Member

Jane Fry, 82, Milford, passed away Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at Goshen Hospital.

She was born May 28, 1940, in Noblesville, to Rev. Robert and Dorothy (Kemper) Wilburn. On May 4, 1979, she married James Fry, who preceded her in death in 1996.

She was a member of Calvary United Methodist Church in Syracuse.

Jane is survived by her son, Todd (Brenda) Eby of Goshen; daughter, Tami (Rodney) Urick of New Paris; grandchildren, Sara Benavidez, Lauren (Paul) Henderson, Eric (Lauren) Eby and Robby Urick; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Patricia Beehler of Florida; and a brother, Robert Wilburn Jr. of Rochester.

Along with her husband, James, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Roberta Hoover and Beann Harshman, as well as her parents.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 24, at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse, with calling one hour prior. Burial will follow at Syracuse Cemetery.

Celebrate National Library Week

National Library Week occurs April 23-29, a time to celebrate libraries and library workers’ contributions and promote library use and support.

The theme for National Library Week 2023 is “There’s More to the Story.” It illustrates libraries’ multiple roles that transcend books.

The Syracuse Public Library offers books in different forms, including Vox books that read to children and books in Spanish. That is a small fraction of what the library provides. Patrons and community members of all ages have access to various programs all year round. Need access to public computers, free Wi-Fi, or a printer, scanner or fax machine? These are all available to the community. Take-and-make crafts for children and teens can be

picked up while visiting. Love puzzles? The Syracuse Public Library has a puzzle exchange where everyone can take and leave a puzzle.

To celebrate the week, the Syracuse Public Library will offer free card replacements from April 24-29. Can’t find your library card? Is your card in terrible shape? Now is your chance to replace it.

Patrons can also leave a note about what they appreciate about the library. Submit your statement at shorturl.at/betyY.

Children’s Programming

Join LEGO Club at 4 p.m. Monday, April 24, in the library’s downstairs meeting room and complete the week’s building challenge. Emilia Layne has a new challenge each week for children to complete.

It’s the perfect chance to test

your building skills while meeting new and old friends.

Story time continues its exploration of the alphabet, play and fantastic picture books at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 26. Schoolaged children, meanwhile, can join the home-school class also at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 26, in the downstairs meeting room. The class will be about geography.

Young Adult Programming

Young adults will meet from 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, in the Rosalyn Jones Room to discuss “House of Salt and Sorrows” by Erin A. Craig. Amber Weber will also have copies of next month’s book club pick, “One of Us Is Lying” by Karen M. McManus, available for checkout.

Fans of anime are invited to the Syracuse library’s Anime Club from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, in the Rosalyn Jones

North Webster Community Public Library —

Room. Weber will continue her presentation on anime’s history, going from the ’90s to the present day. The group will then watch anime on Crunchyroll. The group is geared to those ages 16-25 and some anime may have more mature themes.

Adult Programming

Adults can join chair yoga at 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays. The routines are low intensity and don’t have floor time. Since this program occurs before the library opens, knock on the Harrison Street door nearest the staff parking lot for entry.

The library’s In the Garden group will meet at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 27, in the downstairs meeting room to continue its native plantings efforts. Those with an interest in the natural world and native plants are encouraged to attend.

De-cluttering class to be held

According to a 2019 study, 50% of Americans say they feel overwhelmed with the amount of “stuff” in their homes. Additionally, the average American household reports having 42 different items they are no longer using.

Sometimes these items can be stored and saved, but sometimes they just become clutter, defined as a disorganized collection of things that impedes movement or reduces effectiveness.

If you or someone you know struggles with clutter, consider attending the program “Empower Me to be Clutter-Free” offered by the Purdue Extension at the North Webster Community Public Library.

In this three-part class, participants will learn de-cluttering strategies, discuss emotional barriers to letting go of “stuff” and find storage solutions to help solve clutter problems. Sessions will be held at 10 a.m. Thursdays, May 4, 11 and 18. Register in advance for this free class by calling the library.

The following activities are set to take place at the library. Attendees do not need a library card to participate.

Adult Events

Adult needle felting, 4:30 p.m.

Monday, April 24. Join in for a free needle felting class to make cute animal pins. Instruction plus all supplies will be provided. Register in advance by calling the library.

In honor of National Library Week, NWCPL will be hosting a library-themed escape room Monday, April 24, and Wednes-

day, April 26. Time slots are 3 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. Monday and 1 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. Wednesday. Come solve puzzles, find clues and unlock locks to “escape” in this fun game. Call the library to reserve your preferred time slot.

Teen Events

Teen Bake & Take, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 25. This month they will be making savory cheddar and chive scones. Make sure to bring a plastic container

to take baked goods home. Registration ends April 18.

Play with clay, a two-part pottery class, 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 5 and 12. Join in making pinch pots with flower frogs. Get your hands messy and unleash your creativity in this fun and unique activity. Register by May 3 by calling the library.

Youth Events

Baby and toddler story time, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 25. Join in for songs,

rhymes, stories and more. For ages birth to 36 months. Family movie time, 5 p.m. Thursday, April 27. This month they will be showing the movie “Monsters Inc.” Join in to watch this classic film on the big screen at the library. Free snacks will be provided. For more information about any library events, please call the library at (574) 834-7122, visit nwcpl.org or click into the library’s Facebook page.

Continued from page 1

four break-out groups share their report that four areas needed immediate consideration,” noted Halik. “During the independent group conversations ideas for all levels (elementary, middle and high school) evolved and reported back to the entire committee of which has become part of the written record. Each group appointed a spokesperson who presented to the entire committee, they were instructed to not prioritize their options,” stated Halik.

The four most important focus areas were broken down to: most discussed, frequently discussed somewhat discussed and additional consideration.

The most discussed was: Combine Milford Middle School with Wawasee Middle School and renovate or construct a new Milford Elementary School; new fieldhouse that could be shared by the school and community, renovate or construct a new competitive swimming pool and new performing arts center. During the group discussions it was noted the PAC should include band, theater, kitchen, culinary arts and choir spaces and be available for public use.

Among the frequently discussed items were updating the Wawasee Middle School planetarium, expand STEAM/STEM/robotics/ CTE/AP programs and classroom space, evaluate alternative learning facilities and develop a marketing/communication strategy.

Several groups suggested changing the middle school formation to seventh to eighth grade and keeping sixth-graders at the elementary schools. It was also suggested the corporation look into the possibility of utilizing the space at Milford School to provide nontechnology opportunities such as what Fairfield Schools did at Millersburg Elementary.

Other suggestions included expanding the entrances to Syracuse and Wawasee high schools; add more parking at North Webster, Syracuse and Milford; adjust the boundaries for Syracuse Elementary; expand preschool areas at Milford and Syracuse; and add

outdoor classrooms.

Several groups suggested a solution be found to improve the parent pick-up/drop-off procedures at Wawasee Middle School, including having a stoplight added on SR 13. There were also suggestions of expanding the nurse’s office. Several suggestions were made to renovate the C-wing and have additional space for CTE programs.

There were a number of areas where only one of the four groups brought up topics. These included reutilize and renovate specific storage space areas, putting turf on the baseball and softball fields, school facelifts and district-wide radio system for emergencies.

Numerous other suggestions were made specific to each school. Most included adding conference rooms closer to front offices and upgrading bathrooms.

One group did suggest a marketing department be created to oversee scheduling of new performing arts and athletics facilities and a quarterly meeting of administration and school principals to discuss building concerns and issues.

Among the participants comments in the committee evaluations were: free talk in groups, school funding, building tours and presentations of all topics. Specific comments included: “All voices were heard and all communities were well represented;” “Valuable information shared to prepare for conversations;” “I enjoyed the engagement with individual community members;” and “Seeing the true facts and figures.”

Among the “missing” things committee members noted was time to discuss and debrief each of the topics among the group, staff attrition, input from younger generations and more time. Specific comments were “I wish we could have heard ideas from others before the last session,” “Investment or bond project example, step by step, year by year of another school district;” “... I felt like some administrators were eavesdropping and will use it against employees;” and “I wish we could have a study done on our pools, similar to the architects (facility study).”

Accidents/Incidents

All charges made by law enforcement are allegations and individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law

Kosciusko County

Officers with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office investigated the following accidents and incidents: Accidents

6:34 p.m. Sunday, April 16, South SR 13, east of East CR

600S, Pierceton. Drivers: Tanner J. Moyer, 41, South CR 900W, South Whitley; and Stacey A. Johns, 34, North Harrison Street, Syracuse. Moyer stopped at the East CR 600S and South SR 13 intersection, but did not see Johns’ vehicle

Letter to the editor

Clerk-treasurer needs to understand of health insurance regulations

Dear Editor: Town council members are not part-time employees as asserted by our current clerk-treasurer. We are not regulated under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act that governs full- and part-time employees.

The FSLA is the core law that must be known by anyone in any organization who is in charge of payroll. The large posters are required to be displayed.

Council members get paid a small annual stipend and health insurance. We do not make a salary or even minimum wage. We do not get paid overtime. We do not clock in or clock out. We do not work to an employer’s schedule. We are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Council members do not participate in the town group health insurance policy, but have private health insurance policies reimbursed by the town. The deductibles on private policies do not match the town group policy deductibles and likely do not match each other. The older we get, the higher the premiums, until we transition to Medicare at age 65. The Syracuse Town Council has never put a policy in place that would age discriminate as council members get older until age 65.

Regarding my health insurance, it is the same Anthem policy that I have had since 2005 when I had to change to comply with the town’s health insurance program for town council members. The minutes from the 2004 council meeting that I ran as council president quoted a couple errors from our insurance agent at that time. The clarifications were provided once our group policy was submitted to underwriting. None of those statements were ever practiced or misunderstood by any clerk-treasurer, in 18 years, until Virginia in February of 2023.

Virginia did not misunderstand this last year, just starting this year. Considering the first 12 years, if Virginia is correct (she is not), my deductible was $2,400 and the town’s contribution was $2,000. That would yield an amount due to

We welcome readers’ letters.

me of $4,800. Virginia is wrong. The ruling that Virginia says has never changed has actually never been.

From the beginning in 2005, the town has followed the IRS “comparability rules.” The town by ordinance has practiced the “equal dollar amount” option, never the percent of deductible option. The clerk-treasurer has no authority to change it, but has. The rule requires that an employer must contribute the same amount for each employee.” The violation could subject the town to an IRS penalty over $40,000.

Virginia is also in violation of State Board of Accounts directives. The following letter speaks for itself:

“Larry, “It was nice talking with you today. I wanted to document our viewpoint pertaining to HSA contributions based on the information and ordinance provided. Per Ordinance No. 2019-19 on page two, it notes

‘Annually, the town may elect to fund any portion of the HSA up to the maximum contribution allowed by federal regulations,’ to which we would expect to see that the council has annually approved an amount to be contributed to each employees HSA account.

“If an amount has not been approved by council and is being contributed to employees HSA accounts, we would advise addressing this at the next council meeting. Additionally, unless noted specifically by council upon their approval of the contribution amount, the amount contributed to each employee’s HSA account would be the same.”

With Gratitude, Mitch Wilson Government Technical Assistance & Compliance Director Indiana State Board of Accounts 302 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Office phone: (317) 232-2513 Thank you for your consideration.

Larry Siegel

Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signature will be printed on all letters. Letters must include an address and phone number, which will be used for verification, but will not be published. Emailed letters will be accepted but the above information must be included.

We ask that letters be limited to 400 words. Letters longer than 400 words may be edited for brevity. Writers may be limited to one published letter per month. Readers with lengthy comments should contact an editor about possible guest columns.

Send letters to: The Mail-Journal, P. O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 or dpatterson@the-papers.com.

Clerk-Treasurer

Continued from page 1 the town council.

It is my goal to put the clerktreasurer’s office back together and develop an organization that is legal, sustainable and stable through changing clerk-treasurers into the future. I ask for your votes, trust and support to get this accomplished.

Email: SiegelForClerk@gmail. com. I will forward or lead you to any source documentation proving the points made.

Virginia Cazier

The Town of Syracuse has three main departments: public works, parks and police. As the clerk treasurer, I would suggest using the unrestricted grant toward the public works department’s water and wastewater utilities. The parks department just finished the new ballpark project.

The police department has received several grants in the last few years, thanks to our police chief. Since I have been clerk, the police chief has been awarded several grants worth thousands of dollars; these grants have helped upgrade the police radios and programmed them in the most effective way.

Public works consists of the water department, wastewater department and street department. We have funds available this year for paving in the street

traveling north. Johns complained of neck pain and a passenger in her vehicle, Ricky L. Bryant, 29, Goshen, complained of back pain. Johns and Bryant said they would seek treatment at a hospital on their own. Damage up to $25,000.

4 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, East Bowser Road, east of North CR 375E, Syracuse. Drivers: Haven A. Rolston, 17, East Bowser Road, Syracuse; and Jonathan M. Ott, East Pickwick Drive, Syracuse. Rolston pulled into the path of Ott’s vehicle, causing a collision. Damage up to $10,000.

5:07 a.m. Tuesday, April 11, North Old SR 15, south of West CR 600N, Leesburg. Driver: Veronica Cerda Martinez, 38, North Clemente Court, Warsaw. Cerda Martinez’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $10,000. Incidents

1:10 p.m. Sunday, April 16, 6900 block North Kalorama Road, Leesburg. Rodney R. Forrest reported the theft of a trailer. Value: $800.

9:54 a.m. Sunday, April 16, 11300 block North East Wawasee Drive, Syracuse. Judy L. Lochbihler reported criminal mischief to a building.

5:43 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, 100 block East Esterbrook Drive, North Webster. Jason W. Elijah reported the theft of a moped. Value: $100.

7:52 a.m. Monday, April 10, 6000 block of North CR 450E, Leesburg. James Newcombe reported the theft of outdoor equipment. Value: $2,200.

North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following incidents: Incidents

10 a.m. Saturday, April 15, 5300 block North CR 900E, North Webster. Beth A. Maine reported finding a bicycle left on the roadway.

1:01 p.m. Friday, April 14, 100 block South Main Street, North Webster. Rodney E. Shepherd reported a lost or stolen license plate.

Elkhart County

Officers with the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office investigated the following incidents: Incidents

6:33 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 69000 block CR 127, New Paris.

Lori Chalk reported burglary and the theft of $1,200.

4:07 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, 70000 block Adam Street, Milford. Jeremy Packer and Jennifer Packer reported fraudulent activity.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail:

April 16 — Kylelaya N. Duff, 38, 1833 E. 750N No. A1, Leesburg, booked for theft. Bond: $15,250 surety and cash.

April 15 — Amanda Lent, 40, 700 N. Harrison St., Syracuse, booked for possession of a legend drug or precursor and possession of methamphetamine. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

April 14 — Bianca Nicole Rocha, 26, 9661 E. Pixie Parkway, Cromwell, booked on a warrant. No bond listed.

April 12 — Tavis Ray Crittendon, 29, 4698 E. Country Cove Drive, Syracuse, booked for possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug and failure to appear. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

April 12 — Marty Lee Slabaugh, 59, 1953 E. 1100N, Milford, booked on a community corrections violation. No bond listed.

April 12 — Carl D. Porter, 52, 20673 Amanda Lane, Milford, booked for possession of a legend drug or precursor and failure to appear. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

April 12 — Albert Leroy Stricklin, 54, 3090 E. 1000N, Syracuse, booked on a sex offender registration violation. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Elkhart County

The following people were booked in Elkhart County Jail:

April 13 — Justin Cole Simpson, 41, 531 Railside Drive, Syracuse, booked on two counts of manufacturing/dealing methamphetamine and contempt of court.

April 7 — Judith Elaine Lehman, 57, 18886 CR 142, New Paris, booked for resisting law enforcement and two counts of operating a vehicle while intoxicated-endangerment. Bond: $1,500. Noble County

The following person was booked in Noble County Jail:

April 7 — David Diaz Gomez, 24, Cromwell, booked for operating without ever obtaining a license. No bond listed.

Court News

Local Ordinance Violation

The following judgment has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

Town of Leesburg v. John Ciaccia III, $100 Superior Court III

The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Mathais C. Lawrence, Syracuse, $160.50

Allowing dog to stray — Derek A. Tolson, Milford, $25

department. I would use the grant money for the water and wastewater utilities.

The town’s water and wastewater infrastructure is our biggest need and challenge. The town’s manholes and sewer lines in the old parts of town and around Oakwood need to be lined and manholes sprayed with an epoxy liner. Water mains need to be upsized for better water pressure, fire protection and reliability. The town also needs to replace the lead service lines in several areas.

There is always going to be wear and tear as years go by and repair expenses are getting higher and higher each year. We need to find ways of keeping up with inflation by finding grants, bidding out projects and finding the best and least expensive way to fix and repair infrastructure.

I work with a great group of men and women who work hard for the town. Every department of the town is so important to our community, from the parks department, who keep our parks clean and entertain us with fun events for all to the police department who keep us safe and are there for us when we call. The public works maintain our water and sewer and keep the streets clean and safe. Vote for Virginia Cazier on May

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — James R. Carpenter, Syracuse, $25

Marriage Licenses

The following couple have applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk

of the Court Ann Torpy: Koze-Reiff

Amy R. Koze, 26, Ligonier, and Jacob T. Reiff, 29, Syracuse

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts:

Christenson — Ashley Christenson and Larry Christenson, Syracuse. They were married Dec. 19, 2022, and separated April 12, 2023. One minor child.

Drabenstott — Michael Drabenstott, North Webster, and Heather Drabenstott, South Bend. They were married Aug. 14, 2021, and separated March 18, 2023. No minor children. Roberts — Rita Roberts, Leesburg, and Ray Roberts, Nappanee. They were married Sept. 29, 2012, and separated Feb. 12, 2023. No minor children.

Syracuse

man arrested after allegedly firing gun inside home

Miles Robert Cole, 35, 401 N. Lake St., Syracuse, was arrested after allegedly firing a gun inside a residence.

He has

been charged with criminal recklessness committed with a deadly weapon, a level 6 felony.

On Tuesday, Feb. 21, a Syracuse Police officer responded to

a report of an individual with a weapon. A man said he went to a residence and attempted to speak with Cole, who told him to leave. The man and a woman at the scene then heard a gunshot.

According to court documents, the pair discovered Cole shot a hole into a bedroom ceiling. Three children were in the home during this incident.

Cole said he had a verbal argument with the woman, but did not remember anything else that happened.

Cole was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Thursday, April 6, with a $5,250 surety and cash bond

Ramirez sentenced for sexual battery

Francisco Jose

Ramirez, 52, 9668 N. SR 15, Milford, will serve a two-year sentence after sexually touching an individual without consent.

He was charged with sexual battery, a level 6 felony.

Ramirez was sentenced in Kosciusko Superior Court One Thursday, April 13. Special Judge David Laur sentenced Ramirez to two years in the Kosciusko County Jail, with

eight months executed. The remaining portion was suspended on formal probation. This case will also be served consecutively to a misdemeanor case involving carrying a handgun without a license. Ramirez must register as a sex offender and a no-contact order remains in effect between the victim and Ramirez. Laur said Ramirez can serve the executed sentence through the county’s work release program if he is qualified.

On March 29, 2020, Winona Lake Police officers were informed about an individual being inappropriately touched by Ramirez. A sexual assault examination was performed on the victim, and Ramirez’s DNA was found in the area of the victim’s genitals.

Stricklin arrested after failing to register as a sex offender

Albert Leroy Stricklin, 54, 3090 E. CR 1000N, Syracuse, was recently arrested and charged with failure to register as a sex offender, a level 6 felony.

On Feb. 16, 2022, Stricklin completed a sex offender registration with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, as required by his convictions for child molesting in Kosciusko County in April 1990, and criminal sexual conduct in Minnesota in November 1993.

According to court documents, Stricklin has a sex offender registration start date of Nov. 14,

1997, with no end date. In February 2022, Stricklin said his principal residence was in Syracuse. Sex offender registration reports state offenders are required to report any changes to their principal address no later than 72 hours after the change.

On Feb. 3, 2023, a KCSO deputy conducted a home visit at the Syracuse residence Stricklin listed as his home. A woman said Stricklin had not stayed at the home for the last few days. The deputy spoke with Stricklin, who said he was staying at a home in Kendallville. He said he stayed there about 27 days between November 2022 and January 2023.

Stricklin also allegedly failed to report any changes to his vehicle information after purchasing a vehicle in August 2022. Stricklin was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Wednesday, April 12, with a $5,250 surety and cash bond.

[U.S.P.S 325-840] ISSN 2834-3999 Vol. 62, No. 10

Consolidation of THE MILFORD MAIL (Est. 1888) and THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE JOURNAL (Est. 1907)

206 S. Main St. P.O. Box 188 Milford, IN 46542-0188 Phone (574) 658-4111 1-800-733-4111 FAX 800-886-3796

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Injured driver taken to area hospital

The driver of a Chevrolet passenger car was transported by Lutheran EMS to an area hospital following a two-vehicle crash on SR 13 north of CR 200N. The crash was reported at approximately 2:30 p.m. near North Webster.

Washington Township Fire Department and Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory, along with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the scene.

The driver of the Saturn Outlook was not injured.

It appeared the impact occurred near 2385 S. SR 13, with both vehicles traveling a distance before the Saturn came to a stop in the roadway.

The Chevrolet continued northbound, going off the road and into a wooded area. The Chevrolet came to rest against a small tree.

The Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash.

Two-vehicle crash sends one to Fort Wayne Lutheran Hospital

jured in a crash that occurred north of Milford Sunday, April 16.

The crash happened at 10:09

Several people were in-

a.m. on North SR 15, east of West CR 1350N. According to a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office accident report, Nicholas R. Phillips, 26, North Tuxedo Drive, South Bend, was stopped at East CR 1350N in a black 2017 Ford Focus, trying to turn left to head north on SR 15.

Phillips failed to yield to oncoming traffic and his vehicle hit a copper 2021 Chrysler 300 driven by Audrey A. Stambaugh, 65, West CR 600N, Warsaw.

Phillips had a chest abrasion. A passenger in Stambaugh’s vehicle, Sunshine M. Stambaugh, 48, East Sheridan Street, Warsaw, was extricated and complained of pain through her entire body.

Damage is estimated up to $25,000.

Vehicle crashes into vacant Milford building

Early Friday afternoon, April 14, a white Ford Taurus jumped a curb and ran into an unoccupied building in downtown Milford.

The driver said his brakes failed as he was pulling into a parking spot on Main Street, which caused the vehicle to cross the sidewalk and collide with the building that most recently housed PNC Bank. The Milford branch of the United States Post Office is planning to move its operations into the building in the near future. The impact caused significant damage to a window in the build-

County council tables airport authority until 2024

In an unexpected move Thursday, April 13, the Kosciusko County Council tabled a resolution on moving the Warsaw Municipal Airport from a board of aviation commissioners to a city-county airport authority until 2024.

Councilman Dave Wolkins made the motion to table the issue, Councilman Tony Ciriello seconded it and the motion was passed 4-2 with Councilwoman Kathleen Groninger abstaining. Councilwomen Kimberly Cates and Joni Truex voted against it.

An airport authority is an independent entity charged with the operation and oversight of an airport or group of airports. The city-county airport authority would be supported by a countywide tax instead of a city tax and be governed by a sixmember board - three appointed by the mayor and three by the county commissioners. The city and county councils would have oversight over the authority’s annual budget. The most the tax rate could be would be 3.9 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, but city representatives had said they weren’t expecting that much.

Thursday night, the airport authority was again on the county council’s agenda.

Wolkins asked if all the work needing to be done at the airport,“had they not been done because you have not had the money to match?”

King responded, “No. They’ve not been done because they did not hit the minimum criteria needed to resurface or rehabilitate those pavements until now.”

He said the airport has a pavement condition index done by the state every three years. “We use the pavement condition index with the FAA to grade our pavement to all of the other asphalt on all airports throughout the state. The state of Indiana is given - I think it’s $19.5 million - from the FAA for general aviation airports, like a Warsaw…. And then INDOT, FAA

and the airport split together a statewide plan on who is receiving those funds.”

On top of the funds are two pots of money, he said. Airports of Warsaw’s size receive $150,000 a year it can roll over up to five years. With the airport’s match, state’s match and the federal match - that funding is called “NPE dollars - gives the Warsaw Airport approximately $880,000. King said they also supplement with the Warsaw Improvement Program dollars.

Wolkins asked how long the Instrument Landing System has been out at the airport. King said the ILS has been at the airport since around 1986 or 1987.

“It is still operational. One piece is missing, that is the glide slope. It has been out for about 18 months,” King said. The airport thought it would be able to fix it with some parts scavenged from other systems that have gone down across the U.S., but were not able to. Wolkins asked if the cost to replace the ILS was the $1.2 million cost King has previously presented. King said that was ballpark and would have to be paid through local funding.

Wolkins commented on why he was not in favor of the airport authority at this time.

“I probably had more contact on this issue in the last few days, especially since yesterday since the taxes went out. There is never a good time to raise taxes, but there are better times and I don’t think this is the time to do it,” Wolkins stated.

He said the main focus was to get the airport enough money to operate and “fix up the airport to make it a better facility.” Wolkins said there was no question that the airport is an asset to the community, but he’s had people tell him they don’t use the airport.

“There still needs to be a lot of selling before we go to it,” Wolkins said. “Personally, I don’t like the idea of an airport authority. I don’t like creating another board that has taxing power.

“I would do whatever we can to get enough money for that airport, but I think we, as a county, should buy in. Representative (Craig) Snow made the comment the state wants the county to buy-in at some point. I don’t know that that has to be an airport authority. I think we need to look at an interlocal agreement, a memorandum of understanding. I think we could figure out a way to get them the money they need to improve that airport without establishing an airport authority.”

Wolkins then made a motion to table the matter at this time until they can explore other opportunities to get the airport the money it needs.

Mitchell asked, since the city approved a resolution to approve the authority, will the city council have to go back and approve another resolution if it’s decided to go forward with the authority. King said yes as the city’s resolution was good for 60 days.

Resident Debra Hathaway asked what was happening about CR 100E. King said there’s been questions and confusion about CR 100E and the airport authority and if the two are interlinked.

“The 100 East project is actually a safety issue that has been brought to the airport by the FAA. Whether we extend that runway or not, as 100 East sits that is a safety issue for both the public driving on 100 East and the pilots and passengers currently operating out of the airport. So that is a known issue that we are in the middle of a phase I study,” he said.

While the airport is trying to push for a tunnel underneath the road, King said all options road are still on the table. It is a project involving the FAA.

Asked after the council meeting for his reaction of the county tabling the matter until next year, King said, “I was hoping for a different outcome, but we will keep working toward 2024 and hopefully answer some more questions and have a more positive outcome in 2024.”

ing, as well as damage to masonry work on either side of the glass. The vehicle also sustained front end damage and was backed off the sidewalk and into the intended parking spot when first responders arrived. The Milford Police Department was first on the accident scene, followed shortly thereafter by Milford Fire Department. Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the accident, as well as Lutheran EMS Milford. Turkey Creek EMS also was summoned but was disregarded.

Both the driver and the vehicle’s front seat passenger were reportedly transported to the hospital for evaluation.

Wawasee names new boys head basketball coach

Wawasee High School is excited to announce the hiring of Lou Lefevre as the new head boys basketball coach.

Coach Lefevre brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Warrior boys basketball program. Prior to accepting the position at Wawasee, Coach Lefevre led the boys basketball programs at North Harrison High School from 2019-2023 (compiling a 6426 record), Tipton High School from 2014-2019 (91-28) and Providence High School from 20042014 (175-52).

His experience coaching high school basketball extends beyond the state of Indiana as Coach Lefevre spent time in Georgia and Connecticut amassing four state championships prior to moving to the Hoosier State.

Throughout his 35-year head coaching career (the last 19 in Indiana), he has totaled an im-

pressive 615-240 career mark as a high school basketball coach, which includes a 329-106 mark within the state of Indiana.

Coach Lefevre additionally has six IHSAA Sectional Championships and two IHSAA Regional Championships.

“We are excited to have Coach Lefevre leading our boys basketball program and look forward to his future work with our student athletes,” said Athletic Director Brent Doty.

“We had a number of veteran head coaches reach out and apply for this position, along with a group of experienced young coaches who will undoubtedly make an impact in years to come. However, after meeting with Coach Lefevre, we felt his knowledge, experience, philosophy, leadership and passion for high school basketball were the best fit for the program.

“We are excited for our student

athletes and the opportunity for them to develop under Coach Lefevre’s leadership.”

Coach Lefevre commented, “A coach looking for a new position usually looks at two things: The quality of the people in charge of the school operation and the present condition of the basketball program. Both seem very strong at Wawasee.”

He went on to explain, “The administrators in charge of Wawasee High School and the entire Wawasee School Corporation seem to be the exact type of skilled, welcoming and supportive educators that any coach could hope to work for.

“That, coupled with the fact that former coach Jon Everingham has built a strong foundation in the basketball program for me to try to build on, made Wawasee the easy choice for me over other possible opportunities.”

Boys track and field falls to Concord

The Wawasee Warrior boys track and field team was defeated by Concord, 105-27, Thursday, April 13, at Wawasee. Wawasee junior Lucas Linder came in third and first in the boys 100- and 200-meter dashes, finishing in 11.49 and 23.08 seconds. Junior Hunter Tinkey was second in the 200, finishing in 23.27 seconds. Senior Josiah Boyer took home second in the 400 dash, finishing in 54.57 seconds. Sophomore Quentin Taylor came in second in the 800 run, finishing in 2:11.17. Sophomore Hunter Allen was third in the 1,600 run, finishing in 5:08.41 and junior Landon Kessler was third in the 3,200, finishing in 11:57.02.

Warrior baseball falls to Warsaw, East Noble and Columbia City

The Wawasee Warrior boys baseball team lost to Warsaw, 100, Tuesday, April 18, at Wawasee High School.

Reed Ridenbach pitched three innings and had five strikeouts. Kane Dukes pitched two innings and had three strikeouts. Josh Patterson had Wawasee’s only hit.

Wawasee lost to East Noble, 15-2, Friday, April 15, at Wawasee.

The Warriors kept the game within striking distance during the first three innings. East Noble took a 6-2 lead into the 4th inning.

The Warrior bats were cold throughout the remainder of the game as East Noble outscored Wawasee 9-0 during the final three innings.

Kaleb Salazar had four strikeouts. Gavin Malone had one strikeout. Ridenbach had two hits. Ty Brooks and Ryan Menzie each had one hit. Logen Kessler had one RBI.

Wawasee lost to Columbia City, 19-9, Thursday, April 14, at Wawasee. Columbia City came out blazing hot, immediately loading the bases, leading 11-3 after one inning. The Warrior bats were cold as the team went scoreless in the second and third innings. The Eagles took a 15-3 lead into the 4th inning.

The Warriors managed to score a couple runs in the 4th inning, but gave up four more runs to the Eagles and were trailing 19-5 entering the 5th inning.

The Warriors put together a

nice inning, holding the Eagles scoreless. Wawasee scored four runs to close the gap to 19-9, but ran out of time as a result of the mercy rule.

Dukes had two strikeouts and Ridenbach had one strikeout. Salazar had three hits. Brooks,

Junior Derek Bontrager took home second in the 110 hurdles, finishing in 17.63 seconds. Senior Cameron Zimmerman was victorious in the 300 hurdles, clocking in at 44.77, besting all other challengers.

The 4 x 100 relay team of Zimmerman, Linder, Tinkey and Bradyn Pike finished in 44.48 seconds just behind Concord (44.39). The 4 x 400 relay team of Boyer, Allen, Taylor and Linder came in second, clocking in at 3:39.88.

Boyer finished third in the long jump, jumping 18’ 8 1/2.” Zimmer-

man was fifth, jumping 18’ 4 1/2”.

Senior Braxton Gonzalez took home fifth in the shot put, throwing 40’ 9 1/2”. Gonzalez placed eighth in the discus with a throw of 109’ 1”.

“The Warriors competed hard against a tough Concord team.

There was at least one personal best recorded in every event this evening,” said Wawasee first-year head coach Chase Pinion. Next meet: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 20, at home versus Goshen/ Northridge.

Lady Warrior softball wins three straight

Wawasee defeated Triton, 11-0, in five innings Saturday, April 15, at Wawasee.

Evelyn Duncan had a masterful pitching performance and completed the shutout for the Lady Warriors with nine strikeouts. Jaclynn Worrell, Haylee Allen, Ava Couture and Brooke Catron led the team offensively with two hits each. Catron and Couture led the team with three RBIs each. Couture smashed a walk-off home run in the top of the 5th. Olivia Dailey and Natalie Katzer each contributed a hit.

The Lady Warriors defeated

Manchester, 10-5, Friday, April 14, at Manchester Jr.-Sr. High School.

Allen pitched a spectacular game and had 15 strikeouts. Worrell and Ari Garcia led the team with three hits each. Garcia had two doubles and three RBIs. Allen also contributed two hits for the Warriors. Iliana Burelison, Duncan, Couture, and Catron each had one hit. Catron hit a home run in the 7th inning and had two RBIs. Burelison also had two RBIs.

The Lady Warriors defeated Westview, 17-10, Wednesday, April 12, at Westview Jr.-Sr. High School.

The Lady Warriors led 4-0 after one inning of play. Westview went on a tear in the 2nd inning, rip-

ping off seven runs, taking a 7-4 lead into the 3rd inning. Wawasee held Westview to only three runs throughout the remainder of the contest. The Lady Warrior bats were blazing. The team exploded for 13 runs across four innings.

Pitcher Duncan was in the circle for the win. Sylvia Dixon led the team with three hits and four RBIs. Allen also had two hits and two RBIs. Dixon, Couture, and Catron each had a double. Burelison also had two RBIs. The team has a 6-2 season record.

Next game: 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, at Mishawaka Varsity Softball Field-Baker Park.

Roundup

4/18/23 lost to Concord 4-1. No. 1 singles Kiah Farrington won 6-0, 6-0. “Mackenzie Hackleman played a hard match lasting more than two hours,” said head coach Amanda Hare. “She was defeated 3-6, 6-7 (3-7). We were missing five players tonight. Hopefully, we have all our players at North Manchester on Thursday.”

4/15/23 lost to Jimtown 3-1: Jimtown No. 1 singles senior Senica Zartman defeated Mackenzie Hackleman, 6-1, 6-3; No. 2 singles Alyssa Aldridge def. Wawasee junior Mya Taylor, 6-4, 6-1; No. 3 singles Nea Rusterholtz def. Makayelynm Toumey, 6-4, 6-4; Wawasee No. 1 doubles juniors Allison Clark and Kenley Stewart def. Elli Brothers and Natalie Butler, 7-5, 6-1; Wawasee No. 2 doubles sophomores Hannah Likens and Aubrey Gerber vs. Loria Daniels and Lucy Rosentretor, 4-4, default.

4/15/23 defeated South Bend Adams 3-2: Wawasee No. 1 singles Hackleman def. Marcelina Kokawska, 6-0, 6-0; No. 2 singles Taylor def. S.B. Adams No. 2 singles Audrey Fremeau, 6-4, 2-6, 108; S.B. Adams No. 3 singles Lilly Brewer def. No. 3 singles Oceane Glandon, 6-1, 6-2; No. 1 doubles Clark and Stewart def. S.B. Adams Meredith Anella

and Sophia Scheffler, 6-4, 6-2; S.B. Adams No. 2 doubles Ava Wilson and Katie Wagoner def. Likens and Gerber, 6-1, 6-2.

4/15/23 def. Wabash 3-2: Wabash No.1 singles Hasumi Okoho def. Hackleman, 6-0, 6-3; Wabash No. 2 singles Talia Carrillo def. Mya Taylor, 7-5, 7-4; Wawasee No. 3 singles Toumey def. Alexa Johnson 7-6 (8-6), 1-6 (10-7); Wawasee No. 1 doubles Clark and Stewart def. Abbi Hipskind and Emma Weaver, 6-1, 6-2; No. 2 doubles sophomores Likens and Gerber def. Maddie Vonuhl and Emma Adams, 6-3, 6-3.

4/12/23 lost to Goshen 5-0

BOYS GOLF

Boys varsity golf — 4/18/23 Wawasee def. Central Noble 177-194: Vaughn Dyson, 42, medalist; Maddux Everingham, 44; Myles Everingham, 45; Preston Scherer, 46; Weston DeLong, 47; Jay Finlinson, 48. “We played the back nine, which we usually don’t play, so the scores were a little bit higher, but all in all it was a pretty good night,” said head coach Steve Coverstone.

Boys JV golf — 4/18/23 Wawasee def. Central Noble 218-240: Josh Long led Wawasee, shooting 52.

GIRLS TENNIS

Ridenbach, Kessler and Daniel Wilson each had one hit. Ridenbach had two RBI. Salazar, Malone, Wilson, and Dane Cripe each had one RBI. Next game: 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, at home versus Mishawaka.

Girls track and field finishes third, fourth and second

The Wawasee Lady Warrior track and field team was defeated by Warsaw, 106-25, and NorthWood, 97-35, Tuesday, April 18, at Wawasee High School.

Kaydence Shepherd placed third in the 200-meter dash against Warsaw and third in the long jump against both NorthWood and Warsaw. Isabel Schwartz placed second in the 100-meter dash against Warsaw. Addison Beasley placed second in the 400 and second in the high jump against NorthWood. Olivia Horn placed third in the 800 against NorthWood.

Mia Hodgson placed second against NorthWood and third against Warsaw in the 1600. Zaylee Guy placed third against NorthWood and second against Warsaw in the 3200.

Chloe Linder placed third against NorthWood in the 100 hurdles. Trinity LaJoice placed second against both teams in the 300 hurdles. Emerson Krull placed third against NorthWood in the 300 hurdles. Morgan Reel placed third against NorthWood in high jump. Brooklynn Gibson (33 feet, 9 1/2 inches) placed first against both teams in shot put. Gibson placed second against NorthWood in the discus and third against Warsaw.

Kiersten McCreary placed second against NorthWood and third against Warsaw in shot put. McCreary placed third in the discus against both schools.

Emma Yoder placed third against NorthWood in shot put and first against both schools in discus (127-2 1/2).

“Even though the girls fell short tonight, there are notable athletes from this evening,” said

head coach Stefani Wuthrich. Wawasee finished in fourth place out of 17 teams at The Legend Relays, Friday, April 14, at Fort Wayne Northside High School.

Yoder finished first in Division 1 for both shot put and discus. Yoder now holds the Legend Relays discus record with a throw of 134-1. Gibson finished first in Division 2 for both shot put and discus. Gibson threw a personal record in shot put with a throw of 35-2.

“Both girls completely dominated the throws Friday night,” said Wuthrich.

The 4x100 relay team of Lucy Wilkinson, Shepherd, America Benetiz and Isabel Schwartz broke their season best time, finishing in 52.53 seconds.

The 4x400 relay team of Addie Powell, Beasley, Molly Beer and Olivia Horn also broke their season best time, finishing in 4:21.36.

“They broke their time by 10 seconds, which is huge,” said Wuthrich, adding, “Everyone who competed left with a medal around their neck.”

Wawasee finished in 2nd place in a meet against Concord and Goshen, Wednesday, April 12, at Goshen High School.

Concord beat Wawasee, 79.552.5 and Goshen, 105-27. Wawasee defeated Goshen 93-35.

Gibson came in second in shot with a throw of 33-8 and finished third in discus, throwing 110-5.

Yoder took home third place in shot, throwing 32-2 and was first in discus with a throw of 143-1. Yoder broke her previous school record in discus.

Shepherd came in second in long jump, jumping 15-8 3/4.

Shepherd also finished second in the 200 dash, clocking in at 28.77 seconds.

Sophomore Morgan Reel placed third in high jump, clearing 4-10. Hodgson placed first in the 3200, finishing in 13:29.68, and first in the 1600, clocking in at 5:57.13.

Horn came in first in the 800, finishing in 2:43.45. Jasmine Hernandez came in second in the 800, finishing in 2:46.61.

Linder came in third in the 300 hurdles, finishing in 56.63 seconds. Beasley came in second in the 400, finishing in 1:06.27. Powell came in third in the 400, clocking in at 1:06.52.

Next meet: 9 a.m. Saturday, April 22, at Churubusco Invitational at Churubusco High School.

Getting back to

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Appointments available in Goshen, Elkhart, Middlebury or Nappanee. Call (574) 534-2548 today!

Need immediate care for an injury? Walk into our Goshen office Monday through Friday to see an ortho expert.

Wawasee Supermileage team places first and second at Shell Eco-marathon Americas

The Wawasee Supermileage team, led by instructors Allen Coblentz and Scott Fox, had multiple vehicles place at the Shell Eco-marathon Americas 2023 competition April 12-16 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The team finished first in the Urban Battery-Electric Division

race with their vehicle producing 676 mi/kWh. The team finished second in the Urban Internal Combustion Engine race with their vehicle producing 535 mpg. Team captains, drivers and members were given the opportunity to speak about their experience.

Wawasee senior Urban ICE vehicle team captain Keegan

Hurst said, “Being team captain puts into perspective how everyone works together and plays a part. It was really cool to see all the hard work pay off at the event.”

Senior Urban Battery-Electric vehicle team captain Allison Stookey chimed in, “This is the first year we had a batteryelectric car working. We started it from scratch last year. It was

really cool to see the car up and running on the track, especially with how much work we put into it.”

Senior Urban ICE vehicle driver Cade Beer said, “It was a good experience seeing all the hard work pay off. It’s not like a sport where you have regularly scheduled games. You have to work all year for this one event and you don’t know what’s going

Syracuse Cub Scouts to hold annual cake auction

Syracuse Cub Scout Pack #3828 will hold its annual cake auction at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22, at Saint Andew’s United Methodist Church, 1413 N. Long Drive, Syracuse. The public and businesses are invited to attend and bid. Doors open at 1 p.m. with bidding starting at 2 p.m.

Animals is the theme for this year’s cake auction. With minimal parental help, the Cub Scouts are to bake and decorate cakes that reflect an animal theme. Each cake will then be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

In addition, a silent auction of various donated items and baked goods will be available for purchase by the persons who write down the highest bid for each item. An ongoing online auction of a variety of donated goods and gift certificates, which ends Friday evening, April 21, is also available on the Syracuse Cub Scout Pack 3828 Facebook page.

Proceeds from the cake auction, silent auction and online auction will go toward camp and other Cub Scout activities.

Authorized Dealer

to happen until you get there.”

Senior Urban Battery-Electric vehicle driver Riley Firestone said, “It was super cool to get on a famous track like that and I think we did better than anyone could have imagined.”

Junior Urban ICE reserve driver Charlie Krull said, “Driving on the new track was a different experience than the high school track. There are differ-

ent factors involved and it’s way more interesting.”

Senior team member Nadia Whalen said, “It’s a lot bigger competition than people realize. We were competing against large universities. Duke University was there.”

Wawasee’s Urban batteryelectric vehicle actually beat Duke University’s battery-electric vehicle to claim first place.

Community Corner

NWES music teacher hits the right notes with students

When Michele Payton was 5 years old, she got a mini grand piano from her parents.

“I fell in love with it,” she said.

And she fell in love with music. Today, she is teaching the next generation about her love of music.

Payton, a Warsaw resident, is the music teacher at North Webster Elementary School. This is her second year.

She was born in California and recalled going caroling at Christmas. She moved to Indiana when she was 14 years old. When her parents divorced, she turned to writing songs as a way to cope.

did not sign a record label.”

An accomplished singer, she has since recorded her music.

“My third original CD was done down in Nashville, Tenn., and at one time I was doing a lot of voice-overs for radio and television. A couple (songs) I remember that you may have heard are Miller’s Merry Manor, ‘It’s the way we care,’ and Marion Lincoln Mercury’s song,” she said.

She said she’d eventually like to start her band again.

PROFILE

“We have really not gotten back together,” she said. She obtained a degree in business management from Grace College. She is currently involved in a transition to teaching program to obtain a license to teach.

She was shy, she said, so her mother, Darla McCammon, encouraged her to continue, and she ended up making CDs of her songs. She traveled, sharing her love of music. She took classes at IPFW but quit to work at a “regular job” while still doing music on the side.

“My passion is definitely music,” she said. “It filters into all parts of my life. I tell my students that.”

Prior to teaching music, she was a worship pastor at a church. She was also touring with her group, the Michele Payton Band.

“I was getting ready to tour with Third Day,” she said of the popular Christian rock band.

Things changed when she developed a nodule on her throat.

“I was just finishing my third CD. I was getting ready to sign a record deal. It was scary. Luckily, it was not thyroid cancer,” Payton reflected.

She had surgery and regained the ability to sing.

“God gave me my voice back,” she said. “But I

“I love that I’m in a partnership with other teachers,” she said. “It’s encouraging.”

She teaches music to students in kindergarten to fifth grades.

“I love planning concerts for the kids,” Payton said.

She is married to Mike, her husband of 31 years, and they have a son, a grandson and a dog named Simon. Her hobbies include kayaking, biking and cooking. She plays several instruments, such as the ukulele, flute, keyboard and guitar.

She attends New Hope Wesleyan Church in Columbia City.

“My faith is a big part of my life,” she said. “It’s a prelude to heaven.” Music, she said, is one of her connections with God.

“It’s a way I connect spiritually,” she said.

She said she feels that teaching music is her “new ministry.”

“It’s a whole new adventure. I feel confident this is where I want to be,” she said.

Mobile Meals drivers

MONDAY — B. Harkness

TUESDAY — A. & C. Haab

WEDNESDAY — D. & G. Cooper THURSDAY — J. Redman

FRIDAY — S. Weisser North Webster Drivers

April 24-28

MONDAY — J. & K. Caskey

TUESDAY — Bart’s Watersports

WEDNESDAY — D. Senger

THURSDAY — A. Renner

FRIDAY — A. Mock

South

Shore Village to host community event

The owners of South Shore Village are hosting a “What’s Happening at South Shore” community event that will showcase the vision, features and benefits of the community as well as what’s been happening behind the scenes.

The event will be held from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, April 19 at Boondocks and is open to the public.

At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the project, includ-

ing its design and infrastructure features, amenities and facilities, and planned development phases. It’s also an opportunity to learn about what’s happening in the upcoming months.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage with the development team and ask any questions they may have.

The organizers encourage residents, business owners, community leaders, and other stakeholders interested in the South Shore Village project to

WACF bird walk planned for April 29

The Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation is having a bird walk at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 29, with Dr. Susan Byler from Manchester University leading the walk.

Participants need not register

the free event but should meet promptly by 8 a.m. at the WACF Ed Center, 11586 N. SR 13, Syracuse. Dress for the weather, wear shoes that can get wet and remember to bring binoculars and a bird identification book.

attend the event. This event will provide an excellent opportunity for people to learn more about the project and provide their feedback on what they would like to see in the develop-

ment project. Anyone interested in attending the “What’s Happening at South Shore Village” event can register at southshorevillage. com.

Milford Cemetery Volunteer Day

The Milford Cemetery Association is a nonprofit cemetery association whose board of directors are all volunteers. The association is dedicated to maintaining and managing the Milford Cemetery.

The cemetery does not receive any tax dollars for maintenance. It has been a tradition for many years to have a community volunteer day to spruce up the cemetery before Memorial weekend.

The Ancil Geiger American Legion takes care of placing

flags on veterans’ gravesites and the Milford Volunteer Fire Department does the same for volunteer fireman.

On May 23, the cemetery board is asking volunteers to bring weed trimmers and rakes to clean up around the headstones. Come whenever you can during the day. There is a dumpster near the storage shed for trash.

May 24 will be the rain date. For more information, call (574) 453-8676.

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It happened in Milford … 20 years ago Deputy Marshal receives letter of commendation

10 YEARS AGO, APRIL 17, 2013

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EMPLOYMENT

Work Wanted E080 HONEY DO HANDYMAN & RENO. We do it all - remodels,

Crystal Bray, Milford resident and senior at Ball State University, recently received her Phi Upsilon Omicron Honor Cord during a Family Consumer Science Award and Recognition program that took place at the L.A. Pittenger Student Center at BSU. On May 4 she will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design degree, with a minor in sustainability.

A pair of mute swans can be found once again on Lake Waubee, providing quite a sight for those who brave the inclement shifts in weather. Mute swans, according to the Indiana DNR, are not native to Indiana.

Butler University student Megan Granger of Milford is the co-author of a recently published children’s book “He Huffed and He Puffed But…A Tale of a Wolf with Asthma,” which is being published by Mascot Books.

20 YEARS AGO, APRIL 16, 2003

There will be a new store in Milford opening its doors on May 10. Milford General Store will

have its grand opening on May 10 and will offer residents “what Milford does not have now,” according to owner Juli Johnson, Nappanee. The store will be located at the southeast corner of Main and Emeline streets.

Milford Deputy Marshal Richard F. Miotto has received a letter of commendation from Joseph S. VanBokkelen, United States Attorney, Northern District of Indiana. The commendation follows the successful completion of the prosecution of Robert Henson and Jeremy Weaver on federal firearms violations.

Five flags are proudly flying in the Howard and Mary Vanlaningham yard, located at 504 W. Fourth St. Each brand of the military service is represented by a flag. The Vanlaninghams purchased the flags at the Army Surplus Store in Warsaw.

30 YEARS AGO, APRIL 14, 1993

Krista Zimmerman, a junior at Purdue University School of Education, will be honored for academic achievement on Friday, April 16, in Elliott Hall of Music. She achieved honors status for

the fall semester. A 1990 graduate of Wawasee High School, she is the daughter of Mike and Carolyn Zimmerman, Milford.

“It was no surprise,” says Milford resident Nola Sorensen, as she proudly tells about her new twin granddaughters, Haley Renee and Stacey Lee Sorensen, born Thursday afternoon, April 8, in an Indianapolis hospital. The family was told last October that Craig and Patty Sorensen of Danville were expecting twins. This news was not “too shocking” since there are twins on both sides of their family.

40 YEARS AGO, APRIL 20, 1983

Karl Keiper of r 1 Milford and a Wawasee High School science teacher was named Milford “Citizen of the Year” at a dinner meeting at the town’s new community building Saturday night, attended by 100 townspeople.

Chris and Tim Troup of Milford and Lori and Steve Price of Warsaw served as legislative pages for the 1983 session of the Indiana General Assembly. The students were guests of Representative Robert Price of Elkhart.

It happened in North Webster ... 20 years ago

Donald and Monica Bice, 506 W. Emeline St., Milford, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, April 19. The couple was married at Saint Stanislaus Church, South Bend.

50 YEARS AGO, APRIL 18, 1973

Bernard B. Beer, salesman for McCormick Motors Co., Nappanee, was named “top salesman” for the South Bend division of Chevrolet Motors for the fifth time at a division meeting at South Bend Monday night. Top salesman Beer is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Theo Beer of Milford and a member of the Milford high school graduating class of 1958. Mr. and Mrs. Vernon May of Milford were honored by their two sons, Ronn and Donn, last Sunday in observance of their 35th wedding anniversary. The family was joined by Mr. and Mrs. Jon Lippley and Shelly, also of Milford, at a Goshen restaurant for Sunday dinner. The Mays celebrated their anniversary on Monday, having been married on April 16, 1938, with Mr. and Mrs. Harry Smith of Three Rivers, Mich.

Kindergarten students write letters to a father in Iraq

10 YEARS AGO,

APRIL 17, 2013

North Webster United Methodist Church hosted a United Methodist Women’s Spiritual Growth Day Saturday. Speaker Dawn Bass discussed her adoption of a little boy from Ghana, who was rescued from slavery through Touch of Life Foundation.

located across the street from NewMarket on SR 13.

20 YEARS AGO, APRIL 16, 2003

ed in 1902 and celebrated its 100th anniversary last year.

30 YEARS AGO, APRIL 21, 1993

Students in Cheryl Miller’s first-grade class at North Webster Elementary School made a quilt, which showed many of the things they like to do. They also wrote a book to go with it.

home of Wahneta Gebhart. Pam Kennedy received an honorable mention for a miniature Dresden Plate baby quilt she entered in the Munster Quilt Show. Lela Ledyard and Mrs. Slankard displayed “Puff Biscuit” patterned pillows they had made.

50 YEARS AGO, APRIL 18, 1973

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Tippecanoe Township Trustee’s office has donated several boxes of old township records to the North Webster Community Public Library’s Local History and Genealogy Center. Some of these records have already been cataloged and are ready for viewing. Others will be available soon. If you’re researching local history or your family tree, these old records can be helpful. Local History and Genealogy Director Beth Smith will be glad to help you find what you’re looking for.

Several of the more seasonallyoperated businesses are beginning to open up. One of them, The Old General Store, will reopen Saturday and everyone is invited to stop by and see all the new things. It is

North Webster Community Center representatives contacted North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Emergency Medical Service in search of a first rate, first aid kit. “We want to assure the wellbeing of the people using the center,” said Jon Sroufe, president of the center’s board. “We have over 60 walkers in the hallways each day.”

Natalie Jones, 6, a kindergarten student at North Webster Elementary School, recently penned a letter to her dad, Spc. Jamie Jones, who is in Iraq. As a project in Mrs. Howard’s class, the kindergarten students all wrote letters to her dad.

Jon Roberts, a Kiwanian from Lakeland Kiwanis Club, North Webster, was guest speaker at the recent meeting of Wawasee Kiwanis Club. Roberts has been involved with the 4-H program for nearly 46 years. The 4-H program was start-

It happened in Syracuse ... 40 years ago

Sharon Sigler, administrative assistant at Wawasee Middle School, was guest speaker at Lakeland Kiwanis Club meeting, Monday, April 19, at North Webster Church of God.

40 YEARS AGO, APRIL 20, 1983

The first major activity of the newly-formed North Webster Chamber of Commerce was a success thanks in large part to cooperation and organization, according to chamber member Mike Kern.

The “Biscuit Puff” method of stuff-as-you-go quilting technique was taught by Ruth Dunker April 11, when Lakeland Quilting Club members met at the

Mrs. Phil Fidler was hostess to the Lady Lions guest night meeting recently. Along with 12 members there were five guests present: Mrs. Thelma Berger, Mrs. Marie Pierce, Mrs. Jeanne Coverstone, Mrs. Lee Snyder, and Mrs. Marilyn Hodgson. Lakeview Pythian Sisters met last week at The Pythian Hall. A report on the recent card party, hosted by Mrs. Roy Spry and Mrs. Alva Griesinger, was given. Mrs. Randy Thomas, Mrs. James White, and Mrs. Steve White were new members welcomed by North Webster Volunteer Firemen’s Ladies Auxiliary when they met recently at the fire station.

Cocinero’s Lounge is open for business

10 YEARS AGO, APRIL 17, 2013

This is from Kathy Boyts, “Here is a great gift idea for Mother’s Day. Creative Fish Art Gallery is continuing to offer photography classes.”

This news in from Beth and Dan Klaybor, “Our daughter Karly Klaybor is credited in the new movie called ‘Oblivion’ that is coming out April 19 starring none other than Tom Cruise and Morgan Freeman. Very exiting! Besides graduating from Wawasee High School, Karly is a Ball State grad of last May. Her degree is in telecommunicationsproduction option and that’s just what she did on the film. She was visual effects production assistant for digital domain.

20 YEARS AGO, APRIL 16, 2003

Area seniors can take advantage

of car transportation to the Syracuse Community Center, as well as for shopping trips and other local errands while it is at the center.

Lois Dodds, Bill Baumbaugh and Victor Beachler caught a ride Tuesday morning with Jeannie Kuczewski, the driver. A landmark in town — Lil’s Anchor Bar — has changed hands. Jim and Julianne Conder, Syracuse, purchased the establishment from Larry and Sandy Haviland and will have a grand opening on May 2. According to Jim Conder, he will not be changing the name, nor will he be giving up the barbership business.

30 YEARS AGO, APRIL 21, 1993

Toddler Seth Long received his first traffic ticket Friday afternoon from Syracuse Police Chief Rovery Ziller. As reported last week in this

column, the 2-year-old boy was in his car seat. Mom parked the car at his grandfather Rover Long Sr.’s home on Main Street, April 8, and ran into the house. She took only enough time to place a gift on the counter, as no one was home. In those few moments, Mikki reported the child put the car into drive and it went through the garage. There were no injuries.

Jenny Seward and Nancy Glon of Country Corner Gifts spent Sunday and Monday at the Chicago Apparel Mart. Nancy reports with great excitement about the spring clothing — designer seaters and one-of-a-kind items — that will be available from their store.

40 YEARS AGO, APRIL 20, 1983

Cocinero’s Lounge, SR 13S Syracuse, owned by Randy Cook and his fiance Dee Dee Mallane, is opened for business. Cocinero (the cook) is a new Mexican restaurant and is the only one within a 25-mile radius. The owners have stated the restaurant will be opened on Sundays around Memorial Day. Realtor Harlan Steffen reports that he and his wife Evylyn vis-

ited Gaylord Jones, a patient in the Rehabilitation Section of the Naples (Fla.) Community Hospital and found him in good spirits and making the expected recovery from a stroke he suffered several weeks ago in Vero Beach.

50 YEARS AGO, APRIL 18, 1973

Work began on the new Hook drug store on Pickwick road in Wawasee Village. Vern Dillema, superintendent on the building, said it should be completed in about two months. The building will be 60 x 125 feet, of concrete block, with a glass and brick front.

Tom Prickett is driving a 36-yearold Dodge truck, with a sign on the side “Chickbloom Hatchery.” It was originally the property of Michael Reuter, owner of Chickbloom Hatchery, long since out of business. Foo and Faye Wong have not been able to move into their new Daytona Beach, Fla., condominium, long since completed, because the state is finding fault with the seawall, according to son Corky. Corky is running the business back home, and doing a good job of it. Served 550-odd on Palm Sunday.

Blue herons, butterflies and sailboats fill Sally Mahnken’s studio

There is something magical about stained glass. Maybe it is the way the colors make a person feel. Maybe it is the way the colors are animated by changing light. Or maybe it is the story the images tell.

Local artist Sally Mahnken’s studio overlooks the channels of Kanata Manayunk on Lake Wawasee, where she has lived for the past 37 years. It is a light-filled space where she has been creating stained glass pieces for the past several years. Her art will be featured from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 27, at the Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood.

“I have always loved art. I remember falling in love with the impressionists I saw on a high school class trip to the Art Institute in Chicago. I still love to visit museums all over the world. Whenever I travel, I always go to a museum,” said Mahnken.

After serving 14 years as executive director of CASA of Kosciusko County and several years on the Kosciusko County Foundation, Mahnken took up the art of

stained glass in 2012. Because of her ability to sew, instructors at Glass Link in Fort Wayne told her that working with stained glass would be a natural fit because making stained glass pieces is a matter of creating a pattern and fitting the pieces together.

Many of the pieces Mahnken has in her studio will be for sale at the Oakwood Fine Arts Festival. “This is the seventh year I have participated in the art festival. I will bring a variety of larger panels, hanging pieces and tabletops embedded with mosaic glass. I will also bring mosaic birdhouses, Christmas ornaments and mosaic garden art. The most popular piece at shows would be pieces with a blue heron, cardinals and boats,” said Mahnken.

The process of crafting a stained glass piece begins with creating a pattern, deciding the colors, cutting out the pieces of glass, grinding the pieces and soldering. Many tools are needed at various steps in the process. “I do not consider myself a professional, but I do think of myself as a very good amateur. I do not work with a lot of lead-came, but

use it as a border for some of my round designs. I use the copper foil method,” said Mahnken. Over the years, Mahnken has done several commissions for clients. “Inspirations for what I do come from so many places. I might see a dragon fly down by

the lake and be fascinated by all the colors in the wings. I have purchased a lot of books and I often look at YouTube videos. Next year I plan to work with glass stacked on top of other glass to bring out depth or perspective,” said Mahnken.

County Parks Board approves master parks plan

After approving the parks master plan for 2023-27 Thursday, April 13, the Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board began looking at the next steps for a greenway and blueway master plan. The master plan draft - which the board has been working on for months with the Michiana Area Council of Governments — is due to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for their review by Saturday.

“It just seems like yesterday was the first day that we met, but we have our completed draft master plan, subject to potential approval today,” Board President Rob Bishop said Thursday. The county commissioners approved an ordinance creating a county parks and recreation department and board on May 10, 2022. The board met for the first time on Aug. 18, 2022.

MACOG Senior Community Development Planner Donny Ritsema told the board that now that the public comment period on the master plan has ended, “We can kind of just focus in on what those final outcomes can look like and, again, these aren’t like priorities that necessarily need to be changed, but it was more for confirmation of what the prioritization activities as a board and steering committee came up with, which I think, of what the public had said, did reconfirm our initiatives were on the right track.”

After thanking the board for allowing MACOG to participate in the process for the master plan, Ritsema reiterated that MACOG provides technical services to help communities do the planning work, as well as the implementation. He said he believed there could be updates to the master plan with the IDNR as it was a living document but he wasn’t familiar with that process.

Bishop asked what the timeframe for the plan was after the board approved it. Ritsema said the submission deadline is Saturday, and he thought he would be sending it off Friday. He expected, at a minimum, the IDNR would take about 30 to 60 days to review it.

During the public comment period, Ritsema said they had three open houses - a north, central and south. In total, 40 members of the public attended the open houses. There was a public review form available for online submission, as well as paper copies. Online, 185 individuals formed the form out and they received two paper copies.

The public was asked to select up to three goals out of the eight that the board and steering committee came up with through the planning process. Ritsema said the one that received the highest response - “which again reconfirms why we’re even doing this in the beginning” - was the trail connections. The second highest response was establishing a linear park system, primarily along Tippecanoe River and the waterways.

On specifically where respondents wanted to see those trail connections, Ritsema said the No. 1 connection people wanted to see in the county was between Pierceton and Winona Lake, particularly the Heritage Trail. The second highest vote-getter was Warsaw to Silver Lake, and then Warsaw to Mentone.

“I hope the public understands though that we can’t do everything all at once, but we’ve got to start somewhere so I think maybe this might help as a board maybe where to start,” Ritsema stated.

Board member Mike Cusick said he wasn’t seeing anything surprising and a lot of the goals in the different sections “almost build on each other.” He said their roadmap still remained the same in terms of each of the areas, but maybe it helped the board be focused in some certain areas of the county.

Board member Matt Metzger said they have all these “wonderful” ideas but they’ve still got to figure out how they can pay for them.

Now that the board has a master plan, Ritsema said hopefully the state will concur and approve it and they will be eligible for land and water conservation opportunities. He believed an eligible activity for that program is land acquisition for the establishment of park lands. Discussion came up about ame-

LEGAL NOTICE

The Wawasee Yacht Club, Terry Moorman, Secretary, 8541 S. 450

E., Jonesboro, IN 46938 has applied to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Law Enforcement, Under IC 14-15-7-3 and 312 IAC 5-3-1, for a permit to conduct sailboat

nities in the southern part of the county and where in the southern area a park would be feasible. Cusick said the hard part about it was they could end up with some blank spots in the southwestern portion of the county, like Silver Lake, as well as the northwest region toward Nappanee. He said they wouldn’t be able to serve everywhere in the immediate future, even with the linear parks.

Ritsema suggested, “Maybe the most feasible thing for Kosciusko County, your park system, might look like, it might just be a linear park where it’s a linear way versus more of this spreading out tracts of land kind of way. I think if opportunities come up for that buying up large tracts of land to do a park would be great, but if it does take the form of more a linear park, trails and blueways, I think it’s a win-win for everyone.”

K21 Health Foundation Chief Executive Officer Rich Haddad, a member of the steering committee who was watching the meeting virtually, said, “I love the trail concept, that makes a lot of sense for us as a county, but in the plan is underserved pockets, and so that maybe where we as a county think about providing amenities in smaller communities for smaller settings. So, again, Silver Lake might be a good example. We want to connect them to Warsaw, but what does Silver Lake have to offer in its own community, right? Or, if it’s underserved, like low socio-economic, how do we enhance Enchanted Hills on the east of Lake Wawasee. Those sort of things, to me, would be kind of smaller projects instead of this vast land acquisition idea.”

While he said he loved the primary focus being the trails, he said the secondary focus is where are the underserved people and how do they do something for them.

Haddad pointed out that Silver Lake is looking at starting a new, second park near the actual Silver Lake. The town will be using their K21 pledge money to fund about 75% of that. The current park in Silver Lake is on the east side of Ind. 15, and the new one is

being planned for the west side to make it safer for residents to get to the parks.

Lisa Harman, Live Well Kosciusko executive director, said she lives between Claypool and Silver Lake and she was there as a resident to advocate for a trail between the two towns. She even said she had some acreage she would be willing to donate.

Commissioner Cary Groninger talked about the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP) Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) that the commissioners approved Tuesday and the county council was scheduled to vote on Thursday night. One of the county’s projects proposed in the HELP SIP is the extension trail for Chinworth out to Creighton Brothers or on out to Atwood. Other projects were the blueways and greenways master plan, as well as the canoe launch possibly on James Lake. Grant funding for the projects is to be determined. Those decisions will be made within the next 30 to 60 days de-

NOTICE OF EXECUTIVE SESSION

Notice is hereby given that the Silver Lake Town Council will hold a closed Executive Session pursuant to IC 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(5) to receive information about and interview a prospective employee. The meeting will take place on Friday, April 21, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Silver Lake Town Hall meeting room located at 604 N. Jefferson St., Silver Lake, IN. hspaxlp

Public Auction April 22,

pending on the income surveys and grant funding.

After the board unanimously approved the draft for the parks master plan, the RFP (request for proposals) for the blueways and greenways master plan was discussed. The board scheduled

a special meeting for 2 p.m. April 28 in the county courthouse to work on that.

Check out a draft of the master plan online at macog.com/docs/ community_devel/park_plan/ Kosciusko_ParksPlanDRAFT_ web.pdf.

NOTICE OF ADOPTION

To the taxpayers of the Town of Milford, Indiana:

You are hereby notified that on April 10, 2023, the Town of Milford, Kosciusko County, Indiana, pursuant to notice heretofore given, and under and by virtue of IC 36-9-15.5 duly adopted a plan whereby a Cumulative Capital Development Fund was established to provide for the following:

For all uses as set out in IC 36-9-15.5.

The fund will be provided for by a property tax rate of $0.0500 per one hundred dollars ($100.00) of taxable real and personal property within the taxing unit beginning in 2023 payable 2024 and thereafter, continuing until reduced or rescinded.

Twenty-five (25) or more taxpayers in the taxing unit who will be affected by the tax rate and corresponding levy may file a petition with the Kosciusko County Auditor not later than noon 30 days after the publication of this Notice setting forth their objections to the proposed cumulative fund. Upon the filing of the petition, the County Auditor shall immediately certify the same to the Department of Local Government Finance, at which point the Department will fix a date for and conduct a public hearing on the proposed cumulative fund before issuing its approval, disapproval, or modification thereof.

Dated this 11th day of April 2023.

MILFORD TOWN COUNCIL hspaxlp

TOWN OF SILVER LAKE, INDIANA ORDINANCE #04-01-23

ORDINANCE REESTABLISHING THE CUMULATIVE CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT FUND UNDER INDIANA CODE 36-9-15.5

BE IT ORDAINED by the Town Council of the Town of Silver Lake of Kosciusko County, Indiana that a need now exists for the reestablishment of a Cumulative Capital Development Fund for all uses as set out in IC 36-9-15.5

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that this Council will adhere to the provisions of Indiana Code 36-9-15.5. The proposed fund will not exceed:

$0.0500 per $100 of assessed valuation beginning with taxes payable in 2024.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that proofs of publication of the public hearing held on the 12th day of April, 2023, and a certified copy of this Ordinance shall be submitted to the Department of Local Government Finance of the State of Indiana as provided by law. This Cumulative Fund is subject to the approval of the Department of Local Government Finance.

Duly adopted by the following vote of the members of said Town Council of the Town of Silver Lake, Indiana this 12th day of April 2023.

Medard Hugh Murfin, Council President Nichole Taylor, Council Member Gloria Jean Weller, Council Member ATTEST: Tonya Conley, Clerk-Treasurer hspaxlp

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON DESIGNATING AND DECLARING A CERTAIN AREA IN KOSCIUSKO COUNTY, INDIANA, AS AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AREA, APPROVING AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR SAID AREA, AND ESTABLISHING A RESIDENTIAL HOUSING PROGRAM IN SAID AREA

Notice is hereby given that the Kosciusko County Redevelopment Commission (the “Commission”) approved and adopted a declaratory resolution on January 3, 2023 (the “Declaratory Resolution”), which Declaratory Resolution (i) declares a certain area within the Turkey Creek Township, Kosciusko County, Indiana and designated as the “South Shore Residential Economic Development Area” (the “Area”), as an economic development area within the meaning of Indiana Code 36-7-14, as amended (the “Act”), (ii) approved an economic development plan for the Area (the “Plan”), (iii) designated the Area as an “allocation area” for the purpose of the allocation and distribution of certain property taxes (commonly referred to as “tax increment”) under Section 39 of the Act, and (iv) established in the Area as a component of the Plan, a residential housing development program pursuant to Section 53 of the Act.

occur.

A hearing under this clause is governed by 312 IAC 2-3. (B) Request the division notify the petitioner in writing when an initial determination is made to issue or deny the license. Following the receipt of notice under this clause, a petitioner may request administrative review of the determination under 312 IAC 3-1. hspaxlp

Notice is further given that the Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. (local time), in the Old Courtroom located on the third floor of the Kosciusko County Courthouse, 100 W. Center St, Warsaw, Indiana, at which time the Commission will hear all persons interested in the proceedings and consider the objections of any person who has filed a written remonstrance to the proposed establishment of the new Area within the filing period and will consider taking final action to confirm or amend and confirm the Declaratory Resolution. Written remonstrances to the Declaratory Resolution and the actions provided for therein must be filed with the Commission at the office of the Auditor at the Kosciusko County Courthouse, 100 W. Center St, Warsaw, Indiana by 1:30 p.m. (local time) on Wednesday, May 10, 2023.

Notice is further given that maps and plats of the Area have been prepared and can be inspected along with the Declaratory Resolution and the Plan at the office of the Auditor at the Kosciusko County Courthouse at the address set forth above. Kosciusko County, Indiana Redevelopment Commission hspaxlp

Milford Christian Church hosts second annual Passover meal

Not all local paschal celebrations this year centered on the Gospel account of Christ’s resurrection that first Easter morning.

Milford Christian Church, under the pastorship of Steve Wilson, conducted a Passover meal Wednesday, April 12, at the church to commemorate God’s deliverance of his people from the Egyptians and presaging the promise of the Savior.

The second annual event, which lasted about 2 1/2 hours, drew about 50 worshipers from various congregations in the area. That was a gratifying consequence of the endeavor for Wilson, whose heart is to see the larger body of Christ, which transcends the individual congregations in Milford and the surrounding area, come together in unified fellowship.

“We experienced both religious and ethnic diversity,” he said of the attendees. “We had people

Around The Lakes

from Eglesia Apolostolica, the Spanish church that meets here on Sunday afternoon, and various denominations. Under God’s overarching presence at the meal, we could bridge the Pentecostal with the noncharismatic.

“What we see in Milford is going across the board. The Passover was just a beautiful snapshot of the Big C Church in Milford.”

The Passover meal, called a seder, follows several millennia of devout Jewish tradition beginning with the first “passover” detailed in Exodus 12.

The highly ritualized evening follows a script called a Haggadah, which consists of prayers, Scripture readings and other teachings that intersperse the meal’s courses and the four instances of imbibing wine: the cups of sanctification, deliverance, redemption and praise.

Wilson authored the Haggadah used at the church. “Our script follows a congregationally oriented Passover seder for Gentiles with respect for our Jewish roots but without as much emphasis on Jewish phrases and customs,” he said.

Lacey Savage and Frank Perales both attended the meal for the first time.

“I started at first with no expectation except as a learning experience,” said Perales. “I saw

and sensed God on a grand scale. He was definitely at work. I definitely saw unity.”

“I think it was real interesting because it was like a normal family tradition,” said Savage. “Every table had a host and hostess with hand washing and the food was served family style. The children were given a voice in being part of the celebration.”

The seating arrangements included an empty chair reserved for the prophet Elijah in anticipation of his arrival, which is said to mark the Messiah’s earthly return.

“Jesus leans into these stories in the upper room,” Wilson explained. “When he took the cup of redemption, he breaks from the script and establishes a new covenant. He is the Passover lamb. He is the point of the story. Our differences kind of melt away in his presence.”

Milford Christian Church, 201 Henry St., Milford, holds adult Bible study at 9 a.m. Sunday, followed by its worship service at 10 a.m.

According to the mission statement on its website, christianchurchofmilford.com, “We believe in simple adherence to the Bible in light of the glorious freedom given to us through the New Covenant.”

For more information, call the church at (574) 658-9151.

ADRIVING mishap occurred

Friday afternoon in downtown Milford. The vehicle’s driver reported a brake failure as he was pulling into a parking spot on Main Street, which caused the car to jump the curb, cross the sidewalk and run into the building that most recently housed PNC Bank and is reported to be the future home of the Milford Post Office.

Later that afternoon, repair crews were at the building patching up the damage, which included a broken window and frame and damage to the decorative masonry work. Fortunately, no major injuries occurred, although the incident gave a new definition of the bank’s drive-thru window.

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JOIN THE Friends of the Library for a huge spring clearance book sale at the North Webster Community Public Library April 20-22. There will be a wide variety of books, including large print items, cookbooks, Christian fiction, thrillers, coffee table books, and young adult titles. Plus, there will be other items for sale, such as movies, CDs, audiobooks and more.

Prices range from 25-50 cents per book or fill an entire bag with anything you’d like for only $5. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

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AMERICAN LEGION Riders Post 223 in Syracuse will be holding another meatloaf Manhattan dinner from 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, April 28. The cost for the meal is $12, which includes mashed potatoes and green beans.

Carry-outs are available and everyone in the community is invited, with dine-in service an option for those 18 and older. The meal will be held at American Legion Post 223, 1008 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. All proceeds go to local scholarships and charities.

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AS A way to recognize and honor local veterans, along with the VeteRUN 5K Memorial Day weekend, a memorial walk will take place through North Webster Community Center throughout May. If you have photos or mementos and would like to have them displayed throughout the center in honor of a veteran, contact NWCC at (574) 834-1600, ext. 222, or email info@nwcommunitycenter.com.

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WANT TO know what’s going on at South Shore? There will be an informational meeting 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, at Boondocks at South Shore. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about the project, including its design and infrastructure features, amenities and planned development phases. The event provides a forum for residents and stakeholders to learn more about the masterplanned community.

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THE CULINARY arts students from Wawasee and the cosmetology students from Fairfield High School, all of whom are part of the Pathway Career Co-op, competed last weekend at the state competition in Indianapolis. Both programs had students earn medals, with the first place students representing Indiana at the national competition in June in Atlanta. Congratulations to all involved!

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DON’T FORGET that this is spring cleanup week in Milford. Residents within the town limits can bring their unwanted items to the town garage, located at 600 N. Main St., Milford. The hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Thursday and Friday, and 8-11:30 a.m. Saturday.

There are restrictions on what can be brought to the event. A dumpster for metal recycling will be available. For more details, visit milford-indiana.org or call (574) 658-4519.

KINDERGARTEN ROUNDUP at all three elementary schools in the Wawasee Community Schools district will take place Thursday, April 20. The registration event at Milford, North Webster and Syracuse elementary schools is open to children who will be at least 5 years old by Aug. 1.

Parents/legal guardians can come at any time between 4-6 p.m. They should bring the child’s state-issued birth certificate, immunization records, proof of current address, phone number and email address, if applicable. Call the appropriate school for your community for further information.

If you have a child who isn’t age-quali-

fied for kindergarten, Wawasee Early Learning Center is open and available for children between 6 weeks and 5 years old who live in the Wawasee district. They are currently enrolling for summer camp and for the 202324 school year. For more information, email brosenberry@wawasee.k12.in.us.

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MILFORD LIONS Club currently is conducting its Flag Display Project, in which it will provide to your home or business the service of a 3-footby-5-foot American flag for seven federal holidays, including Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Patriots’ Day, Columbus Day and Veterans Day.

Weather permitting, the flags will go up at 7 a.m. and come down at 7 p.m. or dusk on the federal day of observance. The club will furnish a flag and install a flagpole at your home or business. The minimum annual donation for this service is $25 per year. To be included, contact any Milford Lion. You can also stop by Milford Town Hall and talk to Lioness Tricia Gall or visit the Milford Lions Club Facebook page for an application.

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CONGRATS TO the Wawasee High School Supermileage Team, which had a great weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The team’s prototype electric car took first place. The Urban ICE car took second place and also third place in the regional championship race, qualifying the team to compete in the drivers world championship to be held in October in Bengaluru, India.

“WE HAVE been very busy here at the center,” said Nancy Grey, Senior Primelife Enrichment Center director. “We most recently had a very generous donation from the family of Jean Owen of about 50 Longaberger baskets, all new and signed. We have about 10 or so left, which would make a beautiful Mother’s Day gift for garage sale prices. Speaking of garage sales, the community center is having its yearly garage sale Saturday, April 22. There will be a lot of vendors and some great bargains. I will be here so you can check out our tables in the hall.

“SPEC is hosting smartphone classes again this year. Mike Kendall will be the instructor. An iPhone class will be held from 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, and for any other smartphone (including Androids) from 1-3 p.m. Thursday, May 4. The cost is $20. Come in and sign up or call me at (574) 834-1600, ext. 224. He gives you a handy little cheat sheet to take home with you.

“The trip to the South Bend Four Winds Casino was a big hit. Our next trip is scheduled to leave at 8:30 a.m. Monday, May 15, with payment due Wednesday, May 10. Call me if you have any questions at the number listed above.”

THE SYRACUSE Public Library will be putting “Peeps” to work at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 20, in the downstairs meeting room. Children and their adults will have an opportunity to build creative marshmallow dioramas and really stretch their imagination. The library will provide all the supplies and snacks for the evening. Supplies are limited for this program, so kids and their adults should plan to show up a little early and be considerate with available supplies.

The library also will host an after-hours Magic the Gathering program from 6-8 p.m. Friday, April 21. Come for casual play and enter into the drawing for prizes. The library will also provide snacks. Knock on the side door by the staff parking lot, as the library will be closed during this program.